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| Kayaking in Greenland: An Unforgettable Group Adventure |
Greenland - the world's largest island, covered in ice and adventurous possibilities. This massive land boasts breathtaking landscapes of glaciers, fjords, and wilderness perfect for exploring. For a group of intrepid travelers led by Stewart Elliston, Greenland delivered an unforgettable kayaking journey full of natural wonders, rare sights, and lasting friendships.
Preparing Body and Spirit for the Expedition
When Stewart first discovered the 100km Greenland kayaking expedition, he knew it would be the trip of a lifetime. After gathering a diverse group of adventurous souls, he had high hopes for their shared experience. However, the reality exceeded all expectations.
Fellow traveler Helen Flint echoes this sentiment:
"When I booked, I knew this would be the trip of a lifetime. This was confirmed as soon as I set foot in Narsarsuaq Airport: the views, the awesome guides and most importantly the amazing eight co-travellers."
The group met for the first time upon arriving in Greenland. Though strangers initially, their common love for adventure quickly bonded them. Stewart recalls:
"We all arrived as strangers, by the end of Day One we were friends, and that has continued long after the expedition ended. This is truly an adventure that beats all other adventures I have been on."
Kayaking Through Ice and Into Friendship
Over 5 days of hiking and kayaking across the Greenlandic tundra, the group overcame physical challenges, enjoyed stunning scenery, and cemented lasting friendships.
Fellow traveler Tori Widdowson describes the experience:
"For most adventurous souls, seeing the aurora borealis is a bucket list moment, so seeing them four out of five nights camping was one of many highlights of our trip. In the darkness of night and the silence of the wilderness, there never was such a glorious sound as hearing someone shout 'northern lights!'"
Kate Kedenburg agrees about the trip's memorable moments:
"We were navigating through an ice field so we could set up camp next to the polar ice cap (words I never thought I would say), and even though we were tired, chilly and the weather was starting to turn, the enthusiasm and love for adventure that bound our group together really shone through!"
Celebrating Life's Milestones Together
In the midst of harsh Arctic conditions, the group still found moments of comfort. They celebrated traveler Helen Flint’s birthday over cake at their remote campsite. For Jonathan Lenchner, the journey also held special meaning as a father-daughter adventure with his daughter Tova two years after losing his wife.
The kindness and camaraderie amongst these virtual strangers created memories to last a lifetime. As Stewart notes:
"Many was the time when we were doing something mundane like eating, and someone reminded us to peek outside. When you step out of a tent doorway into ever-changing vistas like that, it pulls you fully into the moment. Those extra moments, generated by this great group of people, were often the best because they fed off the environment we were in.”
Reflecting on an Unparalleled Adventure
After 100 kilometers of icy kayaking and camping under the emerald glow of the elusive northern lights, the group returned safely home. They capped their journey by taking their expert guides Alvaro and Rosa to dinner at one of only two nice restaurants in the tiny settlement of Narsaq.
For Kate, the trip exceeded even her wildest expectations:
“This trip was, hands down, one of the best weeks of my life so far. From Day One, when I landed on an Arctic island with a group of strangers, I had all my expectations blown away. The landscape was stunning, the kayaking unbeatable, and those strangers immediately became friends.”
Indeed, the rare sights and experiences delivered precisely the “Much Better Adventure” Stewart had envisioned. More valuably, these intrepid travelers formed lasting bonds that will forever link them to Greenland and each other. Their story stands as inspiration for those daring to push boundaries, challenge comfort zones, and embrace all this remote island has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kayaking in Greenland
What should I know before kayaking in Greenland?
Greenland is remote wilderness with extreme Arctic conditions. Be prepared by packing proper clothing, camping gear, navigation tools, and emergency equipment. Consider your physical fitness and kayaking skills as you'll be paddling for hours daily. Joining a guided tour ensures safety.
When is the best time to kayak in Greenland?
The summer months of July-August offer the mildest weather and most sunshine. You'll encounter the least sea ice then too. Late August-September brings stunning autumn colors but colder temps. June still has plentiful ice and snow.
What wildlife might I see while kayaking?
Keep an eye out for whales, seals, Arctic foxes, reindeer, and a huge variety of seabirds like puffins. Polar bears live mainly up north but have been spotted south too. Mosquitoes and black flies can be nuisances during summer.
How cold does the water get when kayaking?
Frigid! Even in summer, expect water temperatures around 32-41°F (0-5°C). Wearing a drysuit is essential to prevent hypothermia, along with gloves, boots, and a hat for warmth. Some daring folks even take polar plunges!
Can I see the northern lights while kayaking?
If you visit Greenland in late summer or early autumn, you stand a good chance. Clear night skies coupled with the island’s northerly locale create prime viewing. Seeing the magical aurora shimmer overhead makes even Arctic conditions worthwhile!
Is it safe to drink the water in Greenland?
Absolutely! The ice sheet and plentiful streams produce superb drinking water. Many refreshing waterfalls flow straight from ancient glaciers. Just avoid streams near animal habitats to prevent giardia. Bring a reusable bottle and plenty of water purification tablets.
What are the best places to kayak in Greenland?
The Narsarsuaq, Nanortalik, Ilulissat, and Aasiat regions offer spectacular scenery perfect for kayaking. Paddle among icebergs, explore fjords, and witness calving glaciers. Consider camping in remote areas to fully experience the majesty.
What level of kayaking skill do I need?
Beginners can enjoy Greenland’s waters, but the extreme cold demands endurance. Train up to paddling 10+ miles daily before attempting a multi-day kayaking journey. Past paddling experience, strength, and confidence handling waves are key prerequisites to build upon.
Should I join a guided tour or go independently?
Guided tours ensure safety and easy logistics when kayaking such a remote destination. Choose experienced outfitters utilizing proper equipment like satellite phones, rescue gear, weather updates, plus guides who know the landscape intimately. Both private and group tours exist.
What essential gear should I pack?
Quality drysuits, pogies, waterproof gear, hiking boots, tent, sleeping bag, kayaking gloves, hats, sunscreen, first-aid kit, repair kit, lighter, knife, Garmin inReach or satellite communicator, flare, map, compass, binoculars, cash, snacks, water filter...prepare for self-sufficiency!
In summary, kayaking across the mighty island of Greenland delivers unmatched natural splendor and rare sights seen by few souls. Though extreme at times, its life-changing rewards outweigh any struggles faced along the way. For those daring enough, epic adventure and lifelong memories await.
Share your thoughts below! Has this glimpse of a Greenland kayaking journey inspired you to embark on your own Arctic adventure someday?
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